Truth-based ‘Tragedy’ discussed

Lincolnville Beach — Steven Kassels, M.D., will read from, sign and discuss his murder mystery/legal thriller “Addiction on Trial: Tragedy in Downeast Maine” Saturday, June 7, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Beyond the Sea, Route 1 at the beach.

The acclaimed crime fiction novel is based on medical and legal truths. Dr. Kassels will share a reading and a medical discussion and Q&A discussion period with the audience; and sign books.

Many editorial letters to the editor appeared in local papers this past year surrounding the issue of addiction and treatment. Kassels is Board Certified in Emergency Medicine and Addiction Medicine, and his novel addresses societal discrimination toward drug addicts and explores common misperceptions about what drug addiction really is — a chronic illness requiring a similar treatment approach as other chronic diseases.

When Downeast "local" Annette Fiorno is found at the bottom of a ravine, "outsider" and relapsed drug addict Jimmy Sedgwick is accused of murder. Unassuming Maine lawyer Rob Hanston and big shot attorney Shawn Marks form an unlikely legal team as they attempt to discredit the overwhelming evidence. “Addiction on Trial,” the first in a series of Shawn Marks Thrillers, revolves around the murder cases of Attorney Marks, an egotistical yet likable high-powered Boston attorney who can juggle an array of female companions without taking his eye off the legal challenges of his work.

Medical and behavioral aspects of addiction are woven into the intrigue of this thriller. Kassels said he wrote “Addiction on Trial” as a mystery thriller to both entertain and educate. For more information about the book event, call 789-5555 or email Info@BeyondTheSeaMaine.com.